Historical Hockey and Sports Memorabilia Auction June 2025
Jim Paek’s journey to the NHL was groundbreaking. Born in Seoul, South Korea, Paek became
the first Korean-born player to reach the NHL when he debuted with the Pittsburgh Penguins
during the 1990-91 season. Paek quickly made an impact as a reliable defenseman and was a member of the back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 1991 and 1992. Over his five-year NHL career, Paek played in 217 regular-season games, recording 34 points (5 goals, 29 assists), and appeared in 27 playoff games. His success paved the way for future generations of Korean hockey players, cementing his legacy as a trailblazer in the sport.
Made by CCM, a Maska Ultrafil label with Paek's number "2" penned to it in black marker ink is affixed to the inner collar alongside a size "50" fly tag while the logos of both CCM and the NHL shield have been embroidered into the reverse hem. Decorated over the front with a Penguins team crest that features embroidered details, the NHL's 75 anniversary patch has been sewn over the right breast while the franchise's 25th anniversary and Bob Johnson memorial patches have been placed over the right and left shoulders respectively. The number “2” is displayed in black over white tackle twill on both arms, while the back features a yellow number over a white plate, with “PAEK” in yellow over a black tackle twill nameplate.
This jersey exhibits significant game wear, including numerous puck and stick marks across the front, particularly at the bottom. The right arm shows several puck and stick marks, along with board burns on the elbow, while the left arm features puck and stick marks throughout, with noticeable board burns on the shoulder. The back of the jersey has multiple puck and stick marks, and a small hole is present in the bottom left fabric. A securely affixed fight strap is located inside the jersey. An included full page image of Paek from a magazine shows a loose white thread in the top left corner area of the 75 patch with a loose thread showing in the same area on the actual jersey but not high resolution enough to call a definitive photo-match. This jersey stands as a testament to Paek’s hard-nosed playing style and his contribution to the Penguins’ championship era and will be accompanied by an LOA.
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